As the Giro d'Italia hots up, there's plenty of other news in the world of cycling tech, especially if you want to get off the road entirely

As the Giro d’Italia continues to captivate cycling enthusiasts with its intense racing, a wave of new cycling technology products offers a refreshing alternative for those seeking a more relaxed and versatile riding experience. These innovations focus on gravel, trail, and bikepacking disciplines, appealing to riders who prefer exploring off-road terrain at their own pace. Among the highlights is Stinner’s Refugio 32, a titanium gravel bike designed to accommodate the emerging 32-inch wheel size, which promises enhanced versatility and comfort for varied terrain. Stinner’s Refugio 32 stands out with its lightweight titanium frame paired with a carbon fork, offering generous tyre clearance up to 32” x 2.4”. The bike is available both as a limited-edition frameset and a complete build featuring SRAM Rival AXS/GX components and Stoic carbon wheels. This innovative design aims to provide riders with a multi-purpose machine capable of tackling rugged gravel routes while maintaining a smooth, efficient ride. The adoption of the 32-inch wheel size could signal a new trend in gravel cycling, though its long-term popularity remains to be seen. Fizik has reimagined off-road cycling footwear with the Ergolace 2, a shoe blending trail-running and hiking influences to deliver comfort, durability, and weatherproofing. Featuring a Gore-Tex Invisible Fit membrane and a unique bootie-style upper, the shoe reduces pressure points and weight, enhancing the rider’s experience on long gravel or bikepacking adventures. The Ergolace 2 also incorporates an asymmetric lace system to prevent interference with the bike’s drivetrain and offers both clipped and flat sole options with Vibram rubber for superior grip on varied surfaces. Tailfin’s Journey Rack brings a fresh approach to bikepacking and commuting gear with a modular aluminium rack system designed for maximum compatibility and versatility. It supports a wide range of tyre sizes, including up to 29” x 3.25”, and can be customised with various accessories such as light mounts and mudguards. The rack’s quick-release technology and adaptable design make it suitable for everything from daily commutes to extended touring, providing riders with a lightweight yet robust solution for carrying gear. Finally, Garmin has expanded its popular Forerunner smartwatch range with three new models—the 70, 170, and 170 Music—offering enhanced tracking and training features tailored for cyclists and runners. These watches combine AMOLED touchscreen displays with GPS, heart rate monitoring, and advanced workout planning tools, making them valuable companions for riders who want to monitor their progress across different disciplines. Together, these developments highlight a growing focus on versatility, comfort, and technology integration in cycling gear beyond the high-pressure world of professional road racing.